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I am 44 years of age and currently a Professional Engineer in the field of Mechanical Engineering.

Kindly let me have some information, especially on the future career in flying as I wanted to become a pilot since my younger days. I hope I'm not too late for this position!

I was offered as a Cadet Pilot position with MAS way back in 1984 (if I'm not mistaken) but I have to set aside my 'dream' just to fulfill my parent's requirement to further my studies in UK and becoming an engineer.

Now, I'm fully independent and I hope to fulfill my personal interest in becoming a pilot. I don't know whether I still have a 'place' in this field since I'm quite senior in my current position.

Kindly let me have some information e.g. the recommended training school in Malaysia, fees, course duration, future career etc. I wish to begin this course as soon as possible.

Thank you & regards,

Sulaiman

Hi Sulaiman,

I have received numerous emails similar to yours and have also answered many in the past, not only from engineers, but also doctors, lawyers and other professionals. Everyone wanted to seek a change in their career or to pursue their dream of becoming an airline pilot.

Before I proceed further, I wish to tell you that there are some out there who have encountered a lot of problems when they plunge into this job without finding out their potential. I know of one senior professional with two kids - he decided to sell his house to fund his flying training privately. Somehow, through no fault of his own, he just could not pass his flying tests to be employed by the airlines even though he has just graduated from the flying school.

You see, for example, the older you become, your reflex action suffers when compared to a younger trainee. This is not to say that all older trainee pilots would not be able to cope successfully. It varies from individual to individual. My recommendation is - do an evaluation of your handling capabilities - join a flying club and get the Chief Flying Instructor to give you an honest opinion as to whether you would have problems pursuing a flying career. In this way, you would not waste your fortune trying to achieve your dream but ended up doing some second rated flying that you are not happy with.

Yes, everyone expires to fly for the great airlines where the pay is attractive but remember - they are very selective. Normally, only those with the right aptitude (and attitude) are recruited.

Regarding your request for information on flying schools, fees, courses, etc, they can be found in this site or get them directly from the Flying Schools page here.

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